Media contact: Cass Bonfiglio
American Red Cross of Northern Nevada
Cass.Bonfiglio@redcross.org | 704-577-1808
RENO, Nev. (Jan. 25, 2023) — When it comes to providing vital care and comfort after disasters, the American Red Cross depends on its nationwide network of dedicated volunteers. The Northern Nevada Chapter alone serves 13 counties and more than 80,000 square miles – and there is a great need for new volunteers to continue effectively serving the people in those communities.
“The Red Cross provides relief services after home fires, assists military families, trains students in emergency preparation, and more,” said Mary Powell, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Nevada Chapter. “Our ability to provide these services depends on our volunteer workforce, and our teams are depleted.”
In Churchill, Eureka, Lander, Mineral, and Storey counties, volunteers are needed now in three important service areas:
1.) The Disaster Action (DAT) Team
“We partner with local fire departments as they respond to local home fires, connecting with families to provide emotional support and emergency financial assistance, along with information and resources to help them begin to recover,” Powell said.
2.) The Disaster Cycle Services (DCS) Team
“Members of this team respond to disasters of all sizes -- locally, regionally, and out of state,” Powell explained. “Whether it be opening a temporary emergency evacuation center or a shelter to provide food and overnight accommodations, DCS volunteers ensure that Red Cross services are delivered to those in need.”
3.) Service to the Armed Forces (SAF) program
Geared toward active military personnel, veterans, and military families, SAF volunteers assist in areas such as communication to and from soldiers and their families and information about veterans housing, VA benefits, and resources to help when a family member is deployed, Powell said.
Across the country, more than 300,000 Red Cross volunteers serve their communities by responding to thousands of disasters; supporting the collection of blood to help patients receive the critical care they need; aiding members of the military and their families; helping communities prepare for emergencies around the globe and much more. “Without volunteers’ energy, flexibility, and deeply giving hearts, we would not be able to carry out our mission,” Powell said. “Northern Nevada communities believe in supporting their neighbors, and we know they will answer the call.”
Support the Red Cross lifesaving mission
For more information and to apply for a volunteer position in Northern Nevada, contact Ericka Smith at ericka.smith@redcross.org, call 775-225-3392, or visit RedCross.org/volunteer.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.